Lonzo Ball (left knee sprain) likely out for Lakers vs. Pacers Friday

Lonzo Ball’s latest injury looks likely to keep him out of action for the Los Angeles Lakers for at least three NBA games total. Prior to L.A.’s meeting with the Oklahoma City Thunder at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Wednesday, head coach Luke Walton sounded skeptical that his rookie point guard would be ready to play when the Purple and Gold return to Staples Center on Friday to host the Indiana Pacers.

Ball sprained his left knee during the Lakers’ overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks this past Saturday. He subsequently sat out Monday’s loss to the Memphis Grizzlies and Tuesday’s practice in OKC. The 20-year-old had already been ruled out of Wednesday’s game against the Thunder.

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The Lakers lost their first seven games without Ball, due largely to defensive slippage. They have allowed an average of 124.3 points per game in Zo’s absence.

According to NBA.com, the Thunder and Pacers rank 12th and sixth, respectively, in offensive efficiency. If the existing pattern of poor Purple and Gold defense sans Ball holds, OKC and Indy should strengthen their stats in that regard this week.

For the Lakers, that means a lot more playing time for Tyler Ennis, who got the nod to start in Lonzo’s place against OKC.